How do I know if my Subaru Outback wheel bearings are bad?

Signs of Bad Wheel Bearings in a Subaru Outback
If you suspect that your Subaru Outback’s wheel bearings may be bad, there are several signs to look out for:
1. Unusual Noises:
– Whining or Rumbling Noise: A common sign of bad wheel bearings is a whining or rumbling noise while driving. This noise may be more noticeable at certain speeds or when turning. One user on a Subaru Outback forum mentioned hearing a whining noise and feeling a rumbling sensation while driving, which led to the replacement of a wheel bearing.
– Grinding Sound: Another indication of a bad wheel bearing is a grinding sound, especially when making sharp turns. This was reported by a user on CarGurus who heard a grinding noise while making a sharp left-hand turn, possibly indicating a bad wheel bearing.
2. Steering and Braking Issues:
– ABS System: Defective wheel bearings can affect the anti-lock braking system (ABS), potentially leading to its disablement. This can have a negative effect on the vehicle’s braking distance and steerability, particularly during emergency braking situations.
– Unstable Driving Behavior: Wheel bearings are responsible for stable driving behavior. If they are defective, it can impact the vehicle’s stability and driving comfort.
3. Physical Symptoms:
– Wheel Play: While Subaru wheel bearings may not always exhibit traditional symptoms of play, some users have reported feeling play in the wheel when the vehicle is off the ground, even though the bearings passed other diagnostic tests.
– Change in Noise with Wheel Movement: When driving, you can test for bad bearings by whipping the wheel a bit. Bad bearings will change in noise or pitch with the wheel movement.
4. Mileage and Maintenance:
– High Mileage: Some users have reported bearing noise after their Subaru Outbacks reached over 100,000 miles, indicating that high mileage may be a factor in bearing issues.
– Regular Maintenance: It’s important to note that wheel bearings are crucial components and should be checked regularly for signs of wear and tear, especially in high-stress driving conditions.
It’s important to address any suspected issues with your Subaru Outback’s wheel bearings promptly to ensure your safety and driving comfort. If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose the problem.
Remember, if you hear unusual noises, experience steering or braking issues, or notice physical symptoms related to your wheels, it’s best to have your Subaru Outback’s wheel bearings inspected by a qualified professional.

What are the first signs of bearing failure?

If your bearing is suddenly noisy during operation, you’re looking at a bearing failure. This excess noise is created when the raceways of the bearing have become damaged, causing the rolling elements to bounce or rattle during rotation.

How can I check if my wheel bearing is bad?

And it doesn’t feel like you have a bad wheelbarrow anymore. So no play this way up and down. No play no sound this should be a good wheel bearing.

Do Subarus have wheel bearing problems?

Subaru uses low quality bearings from the factory. Complain all you want, but they’ve been doing it for decades and don’t seem to care about it. Replace them with a quality aftermarket brand (Timken) and be done with it. Be happy you don’t have a stick shift, the throw out bearings in them are junk too.

How long do wheel bearings last Subaru Outback?

100,000 miles
Typically, there is no maintenance required for your Subaru wheel bearings, but a replacement is usually needed after 100,000 miles of driving.

How do you check a wheel bearing without lifting a car?

Spin the wheel and listen for a rattling sound.
If the bearing is bad, it’s likely it will make a rattling noise as you turn it. While it’s not as severe as a wobbling wheel, rattling wheel bearings should be replaced as soon as possible.

Do Subarus have wheel bearing issues?

Subaru uses low quality bearings from the factory. Complain all you want, but they’ve been doing it for decades and don’t seem to care about it. Replace them with a quality aftermarket brand (Timken) and be done with it. Be happy you don’t have a stick shift, the throw out bearings in them are junk too.

What is one of the first signs of bearing failure?

What are the first signs of bearing failure? The first sign of bearing failure is excessive vibration.

How do I know if my Subaru wheel bearings are bad?

Watch out and listen for these signs:

1. Humming Noise. The most easily identifiable and common symptom of bad wheel bearings is audible.
2. Squealing, Growling.
3. Clicking Sound.
4. Wheel Wobble.
5. ABS Failure.
6. Uneven Tire Wear.
7. Vehicle Pulls to One Side.
8. Steering Wheel Vibration.

How much does it cost to replace a wheel bearing on a Subaru Outback?

The average cost for Subaru Outback Wheel Bearing Replacement is $438. Drop it off at our shop and pick it up a few hours later, or save time and have our Delivery mechanics come to you.

Why do Subaru bearings fail?

With the Subaru EJ engines having such a small oil capacity, the oil gets saturated with combustion by products and other engine material sooner. This dirty oil wreaks havoc on bearings and causes them to wear prematurely. With the bearings already being at a disadvantage due to their size, wear also occurs sooner.